Mad About U: Discover the U-shaped architectural stunner in Cardiff that made the cover of The Home Issue

Defying convention is an MO for architect Soheil Nakhshab. So, when a client preferred his primary bedroom be tucked in the back of the house — rather than on the second floor to capture the sweeping ocean view — the architect enthusiastically complied. 

“I always put community spaces in the areas that have the best views so that everyone can enjoy it,” says Nakhshab, standing in the game room with a big-picture window of the Pacific.“Why wouldn’t you want to share this?”

Here in Cardiff, the award-winning architect eschewed the open floor plan in favor of a  discrete, earthly approach. He configured the five-bedroom, four-bathroom residence to toggle seamlessly between shared spaces and private nooks. First and foremost, the U-shaped house buffers neighbors to the north and south. Central to the design is a courtyard, featuring a pool and dense landscaping, which offers a gravitational point that visually connects the zones. 

“I wanted to give the users the ability to experience different spaces and environments throughout the property rather than having one open interconnected space,” says Nakhshab, a second-generation developer who grew up in Cardiff. 

With floor-to-ceiling doors and windows that invite nature, the low-slung mid-century-inspired house doesn’t showboat. 

Instead, moments throughout give pause. At the entrance, a groutless stone façade sets the tone. (“It’s insane how much time it takes,” says Nakhshab, who works solely with local craftsmen.) Inside, a monumental 25-foot polished concrete fireplace heightens the drama with black lava rocks that match the roof rocks, naturally. The overall palette creates a warm, rich atmosphere with graphic wood siding co-mingling with plant life. 

“My goal with landscape design is to create texture and layers by organically mixing various species together. I’m doing my best to mimic nature,” says Nakhshab, who serves as landscape designer and structural engineer on all his projects.  

In this arrangement of open and closed spaces, the house is functional, yes, and intrinsically primal. Three bedrooms and the office are located on the south wing, creating separation and  “room to breathe”  from the main living areas.

The home delights in focusing on simple human rituals. Take that primary bedroom with an indoor-outdoor bathroom that features a leafy atrium and outdoor shower. The sequence of waking, and leaving the safety of your bedroom to bathe within the refuge of the black marble is part of the experience.

So too is padding ten paces down the discreetly lit path toward the office. The homeowner is light-sensitive. So, the use of indirect lighting ensures rooms are not overly lit, providing the quietness and appropriate intimacy. 

“I try to make homes that people actually use. I’m not interested in creating trophy homes that people use once a year,” says Nakhshab.

Founded in 2003, Nakhshab Development & Design is a family business with the architect working alongside his brother, father, and mother. The award-winning portfolio — from Pine Needles in Del Mar to Bankers Hill — includes urban infill projects and multi-generational designs that embrace community. Next up? A mixed-use development in Little Italy with a rooftop restaurant. 

With the landscape unfolding as your guide, the U-shaped design is the very concept of discovery. The north wing is segregated for guests. It includes a dedicated suite and powder bath, a great room, kitchen, and covered courtyard space where everyone can gather and socialize. Serious gusto: The detached gym and spa with a steam room, spa, and cold plunge. 

For all his projects, there are Nakhshab trademarks. The megawatt fireplace? Check. The chartreuse knob on the front pendulum door: It’s the brand color. A large raised concrete planter in the shape of a crescent represents the company logo. It also serves double-duty, establishing seating while separating the pool courtyard from the rear yard designed for gardening and lawn games. 

On the sustainability front, there are solar panels, an automated pool cover for heat conservation, and rainwater harvesting tanks connected to the site’s irrigation system. 

The most victorious design moment for Nakhshab, however, has everything to do with privacy. “You could literally walk around the courtyard naked without anyone ever noticing,” he says.